Gear Guide 2009: Kayland Dragonfly eVent Boot Review

These trail runners are the perfect mix of waterproof and breathable.

Review by: Michael Lanza

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Kayland Dragonfly eVent (Julia Vandenoever)

Top Waterproof Trail Runner
“These have become my go-to shoes for dayhikes and trail runs in sloppy conditions,” one tester said after outings around Idaho and California’s Marin hills. The reason is the eVent membrane, which kept feet dry through mud, puddles, and shallow snow. But it’s also breathable enough–the uppers are mesh–to keep feet cool and dry on hot desert days.

The Dragonflies also have other qualities we want in a low-cut shoe: light weight, good cushion, and superior side-to-side stability, thanks partly to plastic overlays on the uppers. The gusseted tongue, asymmetrical lacing, and close fit through the midfoot and heel meant no slipping or toe-banging, even on stupid-steep trails in the Rockies. And the laces are integrated with wires running back to the heel, to lock in the fit. One complaint: The wiry laces, while highly durable, loosen up unless double-knotted. Best for medium-volume feet. $120; 1 lb. 7 oz. Kayland.com

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